Imaging device and electronic device

ABSTRACT

An imaging device that has an image processing function and is capable of operating at high speed is provided. The imaging device has an additional function such as image processing, image data obtained by an imaging operation is binarized in a pixel unit, and a product-sum operation is performed using the binarized data. A memory circuit is provided in the pixel unit and retains a weight coefficient used for the product-sum operation. Thus, an arithmetic operation can be performed without the weight coefficient read from the outside every time, whereby power consumption can be reduced. Furthermore, a pixel circuit, a memory circuit, and the like and a product-sum operation circuit and the like are stacked, so that the lengths of wirings between the circuits can be reduced, and high-speed operation with low power consumption can be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

One embodiment of the present invention relates to an imaging device.

Note that one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the above technical field. The technical field of one embodiment of the invention disclosed in this specification and the like relates to an object, a method, or a manufacturing method. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a process, a machine, manufacture, or a composition of matter. Accordingly, more specific examples of the technical field of one embodiment of the present invention disclosed in this specification include a semiconductor device, a display device, a liquid crystal display device, a light-emitting device, a lighting device, a power storage device, a memory device, an imaging device, an operation method thereof, and a manufacturing method thereof.

In this specification and the like, a semiconductor device generally means a device that can function by utilizing semiconductor characteristics. A transistor and a semiconductor circuit are embodiments of semiconductor devices. In some cases, a memory device, a display device, an imaging device, or an electronic device includes a semiconductor device.

BACKGROUND ART

A technique for forming a transistor using an oxide semiconductor thin film formed over a substrate has attracted attention. For example, an imaging device with a structure in which a transistor including an oxide semiconductor and having an extremely low off-state current is used in a pixel circuit is disclosed in Patent Document 1.

A technique which adds an arithmetic function to an imaging device is disclosed in Patent Document 2.

REFERENCE Patent Document [Patent Document 1] Japanese Published Patent Application No. 2011-119711 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Published Patent Application No. 2016-123087 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

Imaging devices mounted on portable devices and the like generally have a function of obtaining images with high definition. In the next generation, an imaging device is required to be equipped with more intelligent functions.

Image data (analog data) obtained by an imaging device is converted into digital data and taken out to the outside, and then image processing is performed as necessary. If the processing can be carried out in the imaging device, higher-speed communication with an external device is possible, improving user's convenience. Furthermore, load and power consumption of a peripheral device or the like can be reduced.

Components such as circuits that are increased when functions are added to the imaging device are preferably stacked. For example, when a plurality of circuits are provided to overlap with a pixel circuit, an increase in area can be inhibited and a small imaging device with a high function can be formed. Furthermore, the length of a wiring between the stacked circuits can be short, so that high-speed operation with low power consumption can be achieved.

Thus, an object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide an imaging device capable of image processing. Another object is to provide a small imaging device with an advanced function. Another object is to provide an imaging device capable of operating at high speed. Another object is to provide an imaging device with low power consumption. Another object is to provide a highly reliable imaging device. Another object is to provide a novel imaging device or the like. Another object is to provide a method for driving the above-described imaging device. Another object is to provide a novel semiconductor device or the like.

Note that the description of these objects does not preclude the existence of other objects. One embodiment of the present invention does not have to achieve all the objects. Other objects are apparent from and can be derived from the description of the specification, the drawings, the claims, and the like.

Means for Solving the Problems

One embodiment of the present invention relates to an imaging device that has an image processing function and is capable of operating at high speed.

One embodiment of the present invention is an imaging device including a plurality of pixel blocks, in which the pixel block includes a first layer and a second layer, the first layer includes a region overlapping with the second layer, the pixel block includes a plurality of pixel circuits and a plurality of first memory circuits in the first layer, and a plurality of product-sum operation circuits, a plurality of first binarization circuits, and a plurality of second binarization circuits in the second layer, and the pixel circuit and the first memory circuit each include a transistor including a metal oxide in a channel formation region.

Another embodiment of the present invention is an imaging device including a plurality of pixel blocks, in which the pixel block includes a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, the first layer is positioned between the second layer and the third layer, or the third layer is positioned between the first layer and the second layer, the first layer to the third layer include a region where they overlap with one another, the pixel block includes a plurality of pixel circuits in the first layer, a plurality of product-sum operation circuits, a plurality of first binarization circuits, and a plurality of second binarization circuits in the second layer, and a plurality of first memory circuits in the third layer, and the pixel circuit and the first memory circuit each include a transistor including a metal oxide in a channel formation region.

It is preferable that the product-sum operation circuit, the first binarization circuit, and the second binarization circuit each include a transistor including silicon in a channel formation region.

The pixel circuits are as many as the first binarization circuits, and the pixel circuit can be electrically connected to one of the first binarization circuits.

One of the first binarization circuits can be electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.

One of the first memory circuits can be electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.

The product-sum operation circuits are as many as the second binarization circuits, and one of the product-sum operation circuits can be electrically connected to one of the second binarization circuits.

A driver circuit of the pixel circuit and a driver circuit of the first memory circuit can be provided in the second layer.

A second memory circuit is further included, an input terminal of the second memory circuit may be electrically connected to the plurality of second binarization circuits, and an output terminal of the second memory circuit may be electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.

A third memory circuit and a third binarization circuit are further included, and the third memory circuit can be electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits with the third binarization circuit therebetween.

The second memory circuit, the third memory circuit, and the third binarization circuit can be provided in the second layer.

The metal oxide preferably includes In, Zn, and M (M is one or more of Al, Ti, Ga, Ge, Sn, Y, Zr, La, Ce, Nd, and Hf).

Effect of the Invention

According to one embodiment of the present invention, an imaging device capable of image processing can be provided. A small imaging device with an advanced function can be provided. An imaging device capable of operating at high speed can be provided. An imaging device with low power consumption can be provided. A highly reliable imaging device can be provided. A novel imaging device or the like can be provided. A method for driving the above-described imaging device can be provided. A novel semiconductor device or the like can be provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an imaging device.

FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C are diagrams illustrating a pixel unit.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a pixel block.

FIG. 4 s a diagram illustrating a pixel block.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a pixel block.

FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating a product-sum operation circuit. FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating a binarization circuit.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a pixel block.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a pixel block and a reading circuit.

FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing an example of operation of a reading circuit.

FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C are diagrams illustrating pixel circuits.

FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating a memory circuit. FIG. 11B and FIG. 11C are diagrams illustrating memory cells.

FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B are diagrams illustrating layouts of a pixel circuit.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an operation of reading data from a pixel block.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an operation of distributing data to a pixel block.

FIG. 15A is a diagram illustrating an operation of reading data from a pixel block. FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating a circuit 25.

FIG. 16A is a diagram illustrating a reading circuit. FIG. 16B is a timing chart showing the operation of a reading circuit.

FIG. 17A to FIG. 17D are diagrams illustrating structures of a pixel of an imaging device.

FIG. 18A to FIG. 18C are diagrams illustrating structures of a photoelectric conversion device.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel.

FIG. 20A to FIG. 20C are diagrams illustrating Si transistors.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel.

FIG. 24A to FIG. 24D are diagrams illustrating OS transistors.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel.

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel.

FIG. 28A to FIG. 28C are perspective views (cross-sectional views) illustrating pixels.

FIG. 29A is a diagram illustrating a package containing an imaging device. FIG. 29B is a diagram illustrating a module containing an imaging device.

FIG. 30A to FIG. 30F are diagrams illustrating electronic devices.

FIG. 31A and FIG. 31B are diagrams illustrating moving vehicles.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following description, and it is readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that modes and details can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit and the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to the descriptions of embodiments below. Note that in structures of the invention described below, the same portions or portions having similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals in different drawings, and the description thereof is not repeated in some cases. The same components are denoted by different hatching patterns in different drawings, or the hatching patterns are omitted in some cases.

Even in the case where a single component is illustrated in a circuit diagram, the component may be composed of a plurality of parts as long as there is no functional inconvenience. For example, in some cases, a plurality of transistors that operate as switches may be connected in series or in parallel. In some cases, capacitors are divided and arranged in a plurality of positions.

One conductor has a plurality of functions such as a wiring, an electrode, and a terminal in some cases. Even in the case where elements are illustrated in a circuit diagram as if they were directly connected to each other, the elements may actually be connected to each other through one conductor or a plurality of conductors. In this specification, even such a structure is included in direct connection.

Embodiment 1

In this embodiment, an imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to drawings.

One embodiment of the present invention is an imaging device having an additional function such as image processing. The imaging device binarizes analog data (image data) obtained by an imaging operation, in a pixel unit, and performs a product-sum operation using the binarized data. A memory circuit provided in the pixel unit retains a weight coefficient (also referred to as weight data or filter) used for the product-sum operation. Thus, an arithmetic operation can be performed without the weight coefficient read from the outside every time, whereby power consumption can be reduced.

A pixel circuit, a memory circuit, and the like and a product-sum operation circuit and the like are stacked in the imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention; therefore, the lengths of wirings between the circuits can be reduced, so that high-speed operation with low power consumption can be performed. Furthermore, a small imaging device with an advanced function can be provided.

<Imaging Device>

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention. The imaging device includes a layer 10 and a layer 20. The layer 10 can be provided over the layer 20. The imaging device includes a pixel unit 11 provided with a pixel circuit, a memory circuit, and the like. The pixel unit 11 includes components provided in the layer 10 and components provided in the layer 20.

A pixel circuit and a memory circuit can be provided in the layer 10. In the layer 20, a driver circuit for circuits included in the layer 10, an arithmetic circuit for data obtained by the circuits included in the layer 10, a data conversion circuit, a memory circuit, and the like can be provided. For example, an arithmetic unit 21, a row driver 31 and a column driver 32 that drive a pixel circuit, a row driver 33 and a column driver 34 that drive a memory circuit, and the like can be provided in the layer 20. Furthermore, a circuit 35, a circuit 36, and the like that have functions of, for example, selecting, retaining, converting, and reading data may be provided in the layer 20 as needed.

The circuits included in the layer 10 and the circuits included in the layer 20 can be electrically connected to each other with electrodes, wirings, or the like passing through the layer 10. Note that some of the above-described circuits can be provided in the layer opposite to that described above or can be provided outside the imaging device.

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating details of the pixel unit 11. The pixel unit 11 includes a plurality of pixel blocks 12 arranged in a matrix. The pixel block 12 includes pixel blocks 13 arranged in 3×3. The pixel block 13 includes 3×3 pixels 14. In other words, the pixel block 12 includes 9×9 pixels 14. The pixel 14 includes a pixel circuit 15 and a memory circuit 16.

Note that various arithmetic operations are performed in one embodiment of the present invention on the assumption that the pixel block 13 includes 3×3 pixels 14; however, the number of pixels is not limited thereto, and can be, for example, 2×2, 4×4, 5×5, or 25×25. Alternatively, the number of pixels 14 in the horizontal direction and the number of pixels 14 in the vertical direction may differ from each other. Furthermore, some pixel blocks 13 may be shared by adjacent pixel blocks 12. Furthermore, some pixels 14 may be shared by adjacent pixel blocks 13. Note that the number of pixel blocks 13 included in the pixel block 12 can be changed as appropriate.

The pixel 14 illustrated in FIG. 2A is an example in which the pixel circuit 15 and the memory circuit 16 are provided side by side in the layer 10; alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, the pixel circuit 15 may be provided to overlap with the memory circuit 16. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 2C, the memory circuit 16 may be provided to overlap with the pixel circuit 15.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating components of the pixel block 13. The pixel block 13 includes 3×3 pixels 14. Therefore, the pixel block 13 includes nine pixel circuits 15 and nine memory circuits 16 in the layer 10. Furthermore, a plurality of binarization circuits 22, a plurality of product-sum operation circuits 23, and a plurality of binarization circuit 24 are provided as the arithmetic units 21 in a region (the layer 20) overlapping with the pixel circuits 15 or the memory circuits 16.

The number of binarization circuits 22 is the same as that of pixel circuits 15, i.e., nine. The binarization circuit 22 is provided in a position overlapping with the pixel circuit 15. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a connection relationship among the pixel circuits 15 and the binarization circuits 22, in which one pixel circuit 15 is electrically connected to one binarization circuit 22 having an overlapping region.

The binarization circuit 22 is a circuit that determines image data (analog data) obtained in the pixel circuit 15 by using a predetermined threshold value and binarizes it, and can be a comparator, for example.

A plurality of product-sum operation circuits 23 are provided in one pixel block 13; in the example described in this embodiment, six product-sum operation circuits 23 are provided in one pixel block 13. Note that the number of product-sum operation circuits 23 can be increased or reduced as appropriate depending on the purpose. An input terminal of the product-sum operation circuit 23 is electrically connected to the memory circuit 16 and the binarization circuit 22.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a connection relationship among the product-sum operation circuits 23, the memory circuits 16, and the binarization circuits 22. Note that nine binarization circuits 22 are extracted to be illustrated in order to clearly show the connection relationship.

Nine memory circuits 16 are included in the pixel block 13, and each of them includes a plurality of memory cells. To each of the plurality of memory cells, a 1-bit weight coefficient can be written in advance. Each of the nine memory circuits 16 is electrically connected to each of six product-sum operation circuits 23. Therefore, nine bits of weight coefficients can be supplied to each of the product-sum operation circuits 23. The weight coefficient can be supplied from one memory circuit 16 to the six product-sum operation circuits 23; in this case, the operation can be performed when at least one bit of a weight coefficient is written to one memory circuit 16.

Image data converted into one bit can be output to each of the binarization circuits 22. Each of the nine binarization circuits 22 is electrically connected to each of the six product-sum operation circuits 23. Since image data can be supplied from one binarization circuit 22 to the six product-sum operation circuit 23, nine bits of image data are supplied to each of the product-sum operation circuits 23.

FIG. 6A is a diagram simply illustrating the structure and arithmetic operation of the product-sum operation circuit 23. The product-sum operation circuit 23 can include, for example, nine multipliers 23 a and one adder 23 b. Image data (X1 to X9) converted into 1-bit data in the binarization circuit 22 and a 1-bit weight coefficient (W1 to W9) read from the memory circuit 16 are input to each of the multipliers 23 a, a multiplication operation is performed, and then 1-bit data is output to the adder 23 b. The data input from each of the multipliers 23 a is added in the adder 23 b and then output to the binarization circuit 24. Here, the data output from the adder 23 b (the product-sum operation circuit 23) has a value of 0 to 9 and thus is 4-bit data.

The number of binarization circuits 24 is the same as that of the product-sum operation circuits 23, i.e., six. As illustrated in FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 7 , one binarization circuit 24 is electrically connected to one product-sum operation circuit 23. As illustrated in FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, data input to the binarization circuit 24 is 4-bit digital data corresponding to 0 to 9. The binarization circuit 24 outputs 1 when the input data is determined to be greater than or equal to 5, and outputs 0 when the input data is determined to be less than or equal to 4. In other words, the binarization circuit 24 is a circuit having a function of converting 4-bit data into 1-bit data.

As illustrated in FIG. 7 , one pixel block 13 can output six bits of arithmetic data. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating reading of arithmetic data from the pixel block 12 (a pixel block 13[1,1] to a pixel block 13[3,3]).

The six binarization circuits 24 included in the pixel block 13 each include a selection transistor 24S that controls an output. Gates of the six selection transistors 24S are electrically connected to a wiring RSEL (a wiring RSEL[0], a wiring RSEL[1], or a wiring RSEL[2]). The wiring RSEL is shared by the pixel blocks 13 provided in a row direction. In addition, six output lines OUT (OUT[0] to OUT[5]) to which six binarization circuits 24 are electrically connected are shared by the pixel blocks 13 in a column direction.

A reading circuit 40 is electrically connected to the six output lines OUT. The reading circuit 40 includes a switch 40S, a switch 41S, and a switch 42S each of which is electrically connected to the six output lines OUT in the corresponding column.

The switch 40S to the switch 42S include a plurality of transistors. Gates of the transistors included in the switch 40S are electrically connected to a wiring CSEL[0]. Gates of the transistors included in the switch 42S are electrically connected to a wiring CSEL[1]. The gates of the transistors included in the switch 42S are electrically connected to a wiring CSEL[2].

Three of wirings of the switch 40S to the switch 42S on the output side are electrically connected to each output line OUT. With such a structure, data for each pixel block 13 can be output.

Note that the reading circuit 40 can be provided in the layer 20 as a component of the circuit 35 or the circuit 36 illustrated in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing reading of arithmetic data from the pixel blocks 12 (the pixel block 13[1,1] to the pixel block 13[3,3]). Note that all the arithmetic operations are terminated in each pixel block 13 before Time T1, and arithmetic data is retained in the binarization circuits 24. In the following description, a potential (high potential) that turns on a transistor is expressed as “H”, and a potential (low potential) that turns off a transistor is expressed as “L”.

The potential of the wiring RSEL[0] is set to “H” at Time T1, whereby the selection transistors 24S included in all the binarization circuits 24 of the pixel blocks 13 provided in the zeroth row are turned on and arithmetic data is output to the reading circuit 40.

In addition, the potential of the wiring CSEL[0] is set to “H” at Time Ti, whereby the switch 40S whose gate is electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[0] is turned on and arithmetic data of the pixel block 13[1,1] is output to the output line OUT[0] to the output line OUT[5].

The potential of the wiring CSEL[0] is set to “L” and the potential of the wiring CSEL[1] is set to “H” at Time T2, whereby the switch 40S is turned off, the switch 41S whose gate is electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[1] is turned on, and arithmetic data of the pixel block 13[1,2] is output to the output line OUT[0] to the output line OUT[5].

The potential of the wiring CSEL[1] is set to “L” and the potential of the wiring CSEL[2] is set to “H” at Time T3, whereby the switch 41S is turned off, the switch 42S whose gate is electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[2] is turned on, and arithmetic data of the pixel block 13[1,3] is output to the output line OUT[0] to the output line OUT[5].

The potential of the wiring RSEL[0] is set to “L” and the potential of the wiring CSEL[2] is set to “L” at Time T4, whereby the output of the arithmetic data of the pixel blocks 13 (the pixel block 13[1,1] to the pixel block 13[1,3]) in the zeroth row is terminated.

The potential of the wiring RSEL[1] is set to “H” and operations similar to those described above are performed in a period from Time T4 to Time T7, whereby arithmetic data of the pixel blocks 13 (the pixel block 13[2,1] to the pixel block 13[2,3]) in the first row is output.

The potential of the wiring RSEL[2] is set to “H” and operations similar to those described above are performed in a period from Time T7 to Time T10, whereby arithmetic data of the pixel blocks 13 (the pixel block 13[3,1] to the pixel block 13[3,3]) in the second row is output.

Here, when an arithmetic operation is completed by 1 clock and a reading operation of one pixel block 13 is performed by 1 clock, one pixel block 12 can be read by 10 clocks in total. Note that when the reading circuits 40 as many as the columns of the pixel blocks 12, the pixel blocks 12 for one row can be read in parallel.

<Pixel Circuit>

As illustrated in FIG. 10A, the pixel circuit 15 can include a photoelectric conversion device 101, a transistor 102, a transistor 103, a transistor 104, a transistor 105, and a capacitor 106

One electrode of the photoelectric conversion device 101 is electrically connected to one of a source and a drain of the transistor 102. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 102 is electrically connected to one of a source and a drain of the transistor 103, one electrode of the capacitor 106, and a gate of the transistor 104. One of a source and a drain of the transistor 104 is electrically connected to one of a source and a drain of the transistor 105.

The other electrode of the photoelectric conversion device 101 is electrically connected to a wiring 111. A gate of the transistor 102 is electrically connected to a wiring 114. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 103 is electrically connected to a wiring 112. A gate of the transistor 103 is electrically connected to a wiring 115. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 104 is electrically connected to a wiring 113. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 105 is electrically connected to a wiring 117. A gate of the transistor 105 is electrically connected to a wiring 116.

Here, a point (wiring) where the other of the source and the drain of the transistor 102, the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 103, the one electrode of the capacitor 106, and the gate of the transistor 104 are electrically connected is referred to as a node N.

The wirings 111, 112, and 113 can have a function of power supply lines. For example, the wiring 111 can function as a low potential power supply line, and the wiring 112 and the wiring 113 can function as high potential power supply lines. Note that the wiring 112 and the wiring 113 may be electrically connected to each other. The wirings 114, 115, and 116 can function as signal lines that control the conduction of the respective transistors. The wiring 117 can function as a wiring that electrically connects the pixel circuit 15 and the binarization circuit 22.

As the photoelectric conversion device 101, a photodiode can be used. In order to increase the light detection sensitivity at low illuminance, an avalanche photodiode is preferably used.

The transistor 102 can have a function of controlling the potential of the node N. The transistor 103 can have a function of initializing the potential of the node N. The transistor 104 can have a function of making a current flow in accordance with the potential of the node N. The transistor 105 can have a function of selecting a pixel.

Note that the connection direction of a pair of electrodes included in the photoelectric conversion device 101 may be reversed. In that case, the wiring 111 functions as a high potential power supply line, and the wiring 112 and the wiring 113 function as low potential power supply lines.

A transistor including a metal oxide in a channel formation region (an OS transistor) is preferably used as each of the transistors 102 and 103. The OS transistor has a feature of an extremely low off-state current. When OS transistors are used as the transistors 102 and 103, the charge retention period of the node N can be lengthened greatly. Furthermore, a global shutter mode in which a charge accumulation operation is performed in all the pixels at the same time can be used without complicating the circuit structure and operation method.

Meanwhile, it is sometimes desired that the transistor 104 have excellent amplifying properties. In addition, a transistor having high mobility capable of high-speed operation is sometimes preferably used as the transistor 105. Accordingly, transistors using silicon in channel formation regions (Si transistors) may be used as the transistors 104 and 105.

Note that without limitation to the above, an OS transistor and a Si transistor may be freely used in combination. Alternatively, all the transistors may be OS transistors. Alternatively, all the transistors may be Si transistors. Examples of the Si transistor include a transistor including amorphous silicon and a transistor including crystalline silicon (microcrystalline silicon, low temperature polysilicon, or single crystal silicon).

As illustrated in FIG. 10B, a structure in which each transistor includes a back gate (a second gate) may be employed. Electrical connection between the back gate and the front gate can increase the on-state current of the transistor. In addition, supplying an appropriate constant potential to the back gate can control the threshold voltage of the transistor. Note that the structure in which a transistor includes a back gate can be used for other circuits in this specification. A circuit may include both a transistor with a back gate and a transistor without a back gate.

As illustrated in FIG. 10C, a transistor 107 and a transistor 108 may be added to the structure of FIG. 10A. A gate of the transistor 107 is electrically connected to the gate of the transistor 104. One of a source and a drain of the transistor 107 is electrically connected to one of a source and a drain of the transistor 108. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 107 is electrically connected to the wiring 113. A gate of the transistor 108 is electrically connected to a wiring 118. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 108 is electrically connected to a wiring 119.

Here, the wiring 118 can function as a signal line that controls the conduction of the transistor 108. The wiring 119 can be electrically connected to a circuit 60. The circuit 60 is an image reading circuit, for which a CDS circuit (correlated double sampling circuit) or the like can be used, for example. With the use of the structure, image data can be output to the wiring 117 and the wiring 119. The image data output to the wiring 117 is input to the binarization circuit 22 and then subjected to a product-sum operation. The image data output to the wiring 119 is read to the outside through the circuit 60. These operations can be performed in parallel. Alternatively, only an arithmetic operation (image processing) or only reading of image data can be performed.

Note that the circuit 60 can be provided in the layer 20 as a component of the circuit 35 or the circuit 36 illustrated in FIG. 1 .

<Memory Circuit>

As illustrated in FIG. 2 , the memory circuit 16 is provided in the pixel 14. Furthermore, the memory circuit 16 includes a plurality of memory cells, and 1-bit data corresponding to a weight coefficient is stored in the memory cell.

FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating a connection relationship among memory cells 150, the row driver 33, and the column driver 34. An OS transistor is preferably used as a transistor included in the memory cell 150. The plurality of memory cells 150 are provided in the layer 10 as the memory circuit 16. The row driver 33 and the column driver 34 are driver circuits for the memory cells 150 and can be provided in the layer 20.

The memory circuit 16 includes m memory cells 150 (m is an integer greater than or equal to 1) in a column and n memory cells 150 (n is an integer greater than or equal to 1) in a row, i.e., m×n memory cells 150 in total, which are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 11B and FIG. 11C are diagrams illustrating a memory cell 150 a and a memory cell 150 b that can be used as the memory cells 150. Note that in the following description, a bit line and the like can be connected to the column driver 34. A word line and the like can be connected to the row driver 33. Although not illustrated here, the bit line and the like are also electrically connected to the product-sum operation circuit 23.

For the row driver 33 and the column driver 34, a decoder or a shift register can be used, for example. Note that a plurality of row drivers 33 and a plurality of column drivers 34 may be provided.

FIG. 11B illustrates a circuit structure example of the memory cell 150 a that is of a gain cell type including two transistors and one capacitor (also referred to as “2Tr1C-type”). The memory cell 150 a includes a transistor 273, a transistor 272, and a capacitor 274.

One of a source and a drain of the transistor 273 is connected to one electrode of the capacitor 274. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 273 is connected to a wiring WBL. A gate of the transistor 273 is connected to a wiring WL. A back gate of the transistor 273 is connected to a wiring BGL. The other electrode of the capacitor 274 is connected to a wiring RL. One of a source and a drain of the transistor 272 is connected a wiring RBL. The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 272 is connected to a wiring SL. A gate of the transistor 272 is connected to the one electrode of the capacitor 274.

The wiring WBL functions as a write bit line. The wiring RBL functions as a read bit line. The wiring WL functions as a word line. The wiring RL functions as a wiring for applying a predetermined potential to the other electrode of the capacitor 274. A reference potential is preferably applied to the wiring RL at the time of data writing and during data retention.

The wiring BGL functions as a wiring for applying a potential to the back gate of the transistor 273. By applying a given potential to the wiring BGL, the threshold voltage of the transistor 273 can be increased or decreased.

Data writing is performed in such a manner that a high-level potential is applied to the wiring WL to turn on the transistor 273 so that the wiring WBL is electrically connected to the one electrode of the capacitor 274. Specifically, when the transistor 273 is in an on state, a potential corresponding to information to be recorded is applied to the wiring WBL, whereby the potential is written to the one electrode of the capacitor 274 and the gate of the transistor 272. After that, a low-level potential is applied to the wiring WL to turn off the transistor 273, whereby the potential of the one electrode of the capacitor 274 and the potential of the gate of the transistor 272 are retained.

Data reading is performed by applying a predetermined potential to the wiring RL and the wiring SL. Current flowing between the source and the drain of the transistor 272 and the potential of the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 273 are determined by the potential of the gate of the transistor 272 and the potential of the other of the source and the drain of the transistor 273; thus, by reading the potential of the wiring RBL connected to the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 272, the potential retained at the one electrode of the capacitor 274 (or the gate of the transistor 272) can be read out. In other words, information written to this memory cell can be read out from the potential retained at the one electrode of the capacitor 274 (or the gate of the transistor 272). Alternatively, existence or absence of information written to this memory cell can be found.

Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 11C, the wiring WBL and the wiring RBL may be combined into one wiring BIL. In the memory cell 150 b illustrated in FIG. 11C, one wiring BIL corresponds to the wiring WBL and the wiring RBL in the memory cell 150 a, and the other of the source and the drain of the transistor 273 and the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 272 are connected to the wiring BIL. In other words, in the memory cell 150 b, one wiring BIL operates as a write bit line and a read bit line.

Note that also in each of the memory cell 150 a and the memory cell 150 b, an OS transistor is preferably used as the transistor 273. A memory device using a 2Tr1C-type memory cell using an OS transistor as the transistor 273, such as the memory cell 150 a or the memory cell 150 b, is referred to as a NOSRAM (Non-volatile Oxide Semiconductor Random Access Memory). Note that the circuit structure of the memory cell can be changed as appropriate.

<Layout>

FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B are examples of a layout (top view) that can be used for the pixel circuit of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B each show the layout of the pixel circuit illustrated in FIG. 10B. A back gate wiring 170, a metal oxide layer 175, and a source-drain wiring 180 are illustrated in FIG. 12A. Here, the metal oxide layer 175 is a layer where the channel formation region of the OS transistor is provided.

In order to increase the resolution of the imaging device, it is necessary to miniaturize the pixel circuit. Since adjacent components have an influence on each other in a miniaturization process, a random arrangement of components increases variations in wiring width and the like. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 12A, it is preferable that components be arranged to be spaced evenly in the horizontal direction (X direction) and the vertical direction (Y direction).

FIG. 12B illustrates the structure of FIG. 12A to which a gate wiring 185 and a wiring 190 electrically connected to the gate wiring 185 are added. When the components overlap with one another in such a manner, the transistor 102, the transistor 103, the transistor 104, and the transistor 105 illustrated in FIG. 10B are formed. In addition to them, a plurality of transistors 109 are formed. With such a structure of the transistors 109, which are dummy transistors not involved in the circuit operation, the uniformity in wiring width and the like can be improved, so that variations in transistor characteristics and the like can be reduced.

According to one embodiment of the present invention described in this embodiment, an imaging device that has an image processing function and is capable of operating at high speed can be provided.

This embodiment can be combined with the description of the other embodiments as appropriate.

Embodiment 2

In this embodiment, an imaging device having a structure different from that in Embodiment 1 is described with reference to drawings. The imaging device described in Embodiment 1 has a structure in which a product-sum operation is performed on image data once, and arithmetic data is extracted, whereas the imaging device described in this embodiment has a structure in which a product-sum operation is performed on image data more than once, and arithmetic data is extracted.

Since the basic structures of the pixel 14 and the pixel blocks (the pixel block 12 and the pixel block 13) are the same as those in Embodiment 1, detailed description thereof is omitted.

The imaging device includes two registers as components for performing a product-sum operation more than once and extracting arithmetic data. FIG. 13 illustrates a connection relationship between the pixel block 12 and a register 51, which is one of the two registers (the register 51 and a register 52). Note that it is possible to provide a selection circuit between the pixel block 13 and the register 51 to reduce the number of wirings.

The pixel block 12 illustrated in FIG. 13 corresponds to a simplified diagram of the pixel block 12 illustrated in FIG. 8 , which shows that arithmetic data output from each pixel block 13 after the first product-sum operation is six bits (one bit×6) of arithmetic data. The six bits of arithmetic data output from each pixel block 13 are input and stored in the register 51. In this case, since the six bits of arithmetic data are output from each of the nine pixel blocks 13 and input to the register 51, 54 bits (6 bits×9) of arithmetic data are stored in the register 51 in total.

Next, as illustrated in FIG. 14 , the 54 bits of arithmetic data stored in the register 51 are redistributed to each pixel block 13. Six product-sum operation circuits 23, which are illustrated in FIG. 6A and capable of processing nine bits of data, are provided in each pixel block 13, and nine bits of arithmetic data are distributed to each product-sum operation circuit 23. In addition, nine bits of weight coefficients are supplied from the nine memory circuits 16 included in the pixel block 13 to each product-sum operation circuit 23. Thus, the second product-sum operation can be performed in each product-sum operation circuit 23.

Next, as illustrated in FIG. 15A, 4-bit arithmetic data output from each product-sum operation circuit 23 is input to the corresponding one of circuits 25 that are as many as the pixel blocks 13. In this case, since the number of product-sum operation circuits 23 is six, arithmetic data input to the circuit 25 is 24 bits (4 bits×6) of arithmetic data.

FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating the circuit 25. The circuit 25 includes an adder circuit 26 a and a binarization circuit 26 b. Since 4-bit (corresponding to 0 to 9) arithmetic data is input to the adder circuit 26 a from each of the six product-sum operation circuits 23, an output of the adder circuit 26 a is 6-bit (corresponding to 0 to 54) arithmetic data. The 6-bit data is input to the binarization circuit 26 b. The binarization circuit 26 b can convert the input data into 1-bit data, outputs 1 when the data is 28 or more, and outputs 0 when the data is 27 or less. Although the circuit 25 is illustrated in the pixel block 12 in FIG. 15 , the circuit 25 may be provided outside the pixel block 12.

The 1-bit arithmetic data output from each of the circuits 25 (nine bits of data in total) is input and stored in the register 52. Here, nine bits of arithmetic data can be read as needed. Note that it is possible to provide a selection circuit between the circuit 25 and the register 52 to reduce the number of wirings.

In this embodiment, product-sum operations repeated by further change in the weight coefficient is described. After the above-described operation, the 54 bits of arithmetic data redistributed from the register 51 are stored in the product-sum operation circuit 23 included in the pixel block 13, and a product-sum operation can be performed again by a change in the weight coefficient supplied from the memory circuit 16 to obtain different arithmetic data. Then, the arithmetic data is stored in the register 52 like the arithmetic data obtained by the product-sum operation performed before. Therefore, 18 bits of arithmetic data are stored in the register 52 in total.

FIG. 16A is a diagram illustrating a read circuit 41 connected to the output side of the register 52. On the output side of the register 52, a plurality of sets of six output lines are provided so that arithmetic data can be read every six bits. The read circuit 41 is electrically connected to the six output lines. The read circuit 41 includes a switch 43S, switch 44S, and a switch 45S each of which is electrically connected to the six output lines.

The switch 43S to the switch 45S include a plurality of transistors. Gates of the transistors included in the switch 43S are electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[0]. Gates of the transistors included in the switch 44S are electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[1]. Gates of the transistors included in the switch 45S are electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[2].

Three of wirings of the switch 43S to the switch 45S on the output side are electrically connected to each output line OUT (OUT[0] to OUT[5]). With such a structure, arithmetic data can be output six bits by six bits.

Note that the register 51, the register 52, and the read circuit 41 can be provided in the layer 20 as components of the circuit 35 or the circuit 36 illustrated in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 16B is a timing chart showing reading of arithmetic data stored in the register 52. Note that all the arithmetic data (18 bits) is stored in the register 52 before Time T1. In the following description, a potential (a high potential) for turning on a transistor is expressed as “H”, and a potential (a low potential) for turning off a transistor is expressed as “L”.

The potential of the wiring CSEL[0] is set to “H” at Time T1, whereby the switch 43S whose gate is electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[0] is turned on and six bits of arithmetic data of the first time are output to the output line OUT[0] to the output line OUT[5].

The potential of the wiring CSEL[0] is set to “L” and the potential of the wiring CSEL[1] is set to “H” at Time T2, whereby the switch 43S is turned off, the switch 44S whose gate is electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[1] is turned on, and six bits of arithmetic data of the second time different from the data of the first time are output to the output line OUT[0] to the output line OUT[5].

The potential of the wiring CSEL[1] is set to “L” and the potential of the wiring CSEL[2] is set to “H” at Time T3, whereby the switch 44S is turned off, the switch 45S whose gate is electrically connected to the wiring CSEL[2] is turned on, and six bits of arithmetic data of the third time different from the data of the first time and the second time are output to the output line OUT[0] to the output line OUT[5].

Here, an operation until 54 bits of arithmetic data are stored in the register 51 is performed in the first clock, an operation until nine bits of arithmetic data of the first time are stored in the register 52 is performed in the second clock, and an operation until nine bits of arithmetic data of the second time are stored in the register 52 is performed in the third clock. Then, reading of six bits of arithmetic data of the first time from the register 52 is performed in the fourth clock, reading of six bits of arithmetic data of the second time is performed in the fifth clock, and reading of six bits of arithmetic data of the third time is performed in the sixth clock, in which case all the operations can be terminated in the six clocks.

The operations in the first to third clocks and the operations in the fourth to sixth clocks can be conducted in parallel, and when the period from Time T1 to Time T2 corresponds to the fourth clock, the period from Time T2 to Time T3 corresponds to the fifth clock, and the period from Time T3 to Time T4 corresponds to the sixth clock in the timing chart shown in FIG. 16B, the next reading of 18 bits of arithmetic data can be performed in the period from Time T4 to Time T7. Then, the subsequent reading of 18 bits of arithmetic data can be performed in the period from Time T7 to Time T10.

Although the reading operation of arithmetic data from the pixel block 12 in Embodiment 1 and this embodiment corresponds to an operation of Stride 3 and pooling process is omitted, pooling process may be performed to further compress the arithmetic data.

According to one embodiment of the present invention described in this embodiment, an imaging device that has an image processing function and is capable of operating at high speed can be provided.

This embodiment can be combined with the description of the other embodiments as appropriate.

Embodiment 3

In this embodiment, structure examples and the like of the imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

<Structure Example>

FIG. 17A is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a pixel in an imaging device, and a stacked-layer structure of a layer 561 and a layer 563 can be employed.

The layer 561 includes the photoelectric conversion device 101. The photoelectric conversion device 101 can include a layer 565 a and a layer 565 b as illustrated in FIG. 18A. Note that a layer may be rephrased as a region, depending on the case.

The photoelectric conversion device 101 illustrated in FIG. 18A is a pn junction photodiode; for example, a p-type semiconductor can be used for the layer 565 a, and an n-type semiconductor can be used for the layer 565 b. Alternatively, an n-type semiconductor may be used for the layer 565 a, and a p-type semiconductor may be used for the layer 565 b.

The pn junction photodiode can be formed typically using single crystal silicon. A photodiode in which single crystal silicon is used for a photoelectric conversion layer has relatively wide spectral sensitivity to light from ultraviolet light to near-infrared light and can detect light of various wavelengths by being combined with an optical conversion layer described later.

Alternatively, a compound semiconductor may be used for the photoelectric conversion layer of the pn junction photodiode. As the compound semiconductor, gallium arsenic phosphide (GaAsP), gallium phosphide (GaP), indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs), lead sulfide (PbS), lead selenide (PbSe), indium arsenide (InAs), indium antimonide (InSb), mercury cadmium telluride (HgCdTe), or the like can be used, for example.

The compound semiconductor is preferably a compound semiconductor including a Group 13 element (e.g., aluminum, gallium, or indium) and a Group 15 element (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, or antimony) (such a compound semiconductor is also referred to as a Group III-V compound semiconductor) or a compound semiconductor including a Group 12 element (e.g., magnesium, zinc, cadmium, or mercury) and a Group 16 element (e.g., oxygen, sulfur, selenium, or tellurium) (such a compound semiconductor is also referred to as a Group II-VI compound semiconductor).

The use of the compound semiconductor, which can change the bandgap depending on the combination of constituent elements or the atomic ratio of the elements, enables formation of a photodiode having sensitivity to a wide wavelength range from ultraviolet light to infrared light.

Note that the wavelength of ultraviolet light can be generally defined as the vicinity of 0.01 μm to the vicinity of 0.38 μm, the wavelength of visible light can be generally defined as the vicinity of 0.38 μm to the vicinity of 0.75 μm, the wavelength of near-infrared light can be generally defined as the vicinity of 0.75 μm to the vicinity of 2.5 μm, the wavelength of mid-infrared light can be generally defined as the vicinity of 2.5 μm to the vicinity of 4 μm, and the wavelength of far-infrared light can be generally defined as the vicinity of 4 μm to the vicinity of 1000 μm.

For example, to form a photodiode having sensitivity to light from ultraviolet light to visible light, GaP or the like can be used for the photoelectric conversion layer. To form a photodiode having sensitivity to light from ultraviolet light to near-infrared light, silicon, GaAsP, or the like can be used for the photoelectric conversion layer. Furthermore, to form a photodiode having sensitivity to light from visible light to mid-infrared light, InGaAs or the like can be used for the photoelectric conversion layer. To form a photodiode having sensitivity to light from near-infrared light to mid-infrared light, PbS, InAs, or the like can be used for the photoelectric conversion layer. To form a photodiode having sensitivity to light from mid-infrared light to far-infrared light, PbSe, InSb, HgCdTe, or the like can be used for the photoelectric conversion layer.

Note that the photodiodes using the above-described compound semiconductors may be pin junction photodiodes as well as pn junction photodiodes. Furthermore, the pn junction and the pin junction may have a heterojunction structure without being limited to a homojunction structure.

For example, in the heterojunction, a first compound semiconductor can be used as one layer of the pn junction structure, and a second compound semiconductor that is different from the first compound semiconductor can be used as the other layer. Furthermore, a first compound semiconductor can be used as any one or two layers of the pin junction structure, and a second compound semiconductor that is different from the first compound semiconductor can be used as the other layer(s). Note that one of the first compound semiconductor and the second compound semiconductor may be a semiconductor of a single element such as silicon.

Note that different materials may be used for different pixels in forming photoelectric conversion layers of photodiodes. With this structure, an imaging device which includes any two kinds of pixels or three kinds of pixels among a pixel that detects ultraviolet light, a pixel that detects visible light, a pixel that detects infrared light, and the like can be formed.

The photoelectric conversion device 101 included in the layer 561 may have a stacked-layer structure of a layer 566 a, a layer 566 b, a layer 566 c, and a layer 566 d as illustrated in FIG. 18B. The photoelectric conversion device 101 illustrated in FIG. 18B is an example of an avalanche photodiode, and the layer 566 a and the layer 566 d correspond to electrodes and the layers 566 b and 566 c correspond to a photoelectric conversion portion.

The layer 566 a is preferably a low-resistance metal layer or the like. For example, aluminum, titanium, tungsten, tantalum, silver, or a stacked layer thereof can be used.

A conductive layer having a high light-transmitting property with respect to visible light is preferably used as the layer 566 d. For example, indium oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, indium tin oxide, gallium zinc oxide, indium gallium zinc oxide, graphene, or the like can be used. Note that a structure in which the layer 566 d is omitted can also be employed.

A structure of a pn junction photodiode containing a selenium-based material in a photoelectric conversion layer can be used for the layers 566 b and 566 c of the photoelectric conversion portion, for example. A selenium-based material, which is a p-type semiconductor, is preferably used for the layer 566 b, and gallium oxide or the like, which is an n-type semiconductor, is preferably used for the layer 566 c.

A photoelectric conversion device containing a selenium-based material has characteristics of high external quantum efficiency with respect to visible light. In the photoelectric conversion device, electrons are greatly amplified with respect to the amount of incident light by utilizing the avalanche multiplication. A selenium-based material has a high light-absorption coefficient and thus has advantages in production; for example, a photoelectric conversion layer can be formed using a thin film. A thin film of a selenium-based material can be formed by a vacuum evaporation method, a sputtering method, or the like.

As the selenium-based material, crystalline selenium (single crystal selenium or polycrystalline selenium) or amorphous selenium can be used. These selenium-based materials have sensitivity to light from ultraviolet light to visible light. Furthermore, a compound of copper, indium, and selenium (CIS), a compound of copper, indium, gallium, and selenium (CIGS), or the like can be used. These compounds have sensitivity to light from ultraviolet light to near-infrared light.

An n-type semiconductor is preferably formed using a material with a wide band gap and a light-transmitting property with respect to visible light. For example, zinc oxide, gallium oxide, indium oxide, tin oxide, or mixed oxide thereof can be used. In addition, these materials have a function of a hole-injection blocking layer, so that a dark current can be decreased.

The photoelectric conversion device 101 included in the layer 561 may have a stacked-layer structure of a layer 567 a, a layer 567 b, a layer 567 c, a layer 567 d, and a layer 567 e as illustrated in FIG. 18C. The photoelectric conversion device 101 illustrated in FIG. 18C is an example of an organic photoconductive film; the layer 567 a is a lower electrode, the layer 567 e is an upper electrode having a light-transmitting property, and the layers 567 b, 567 c, and 567 d correspond to a photoelectric conversion portion.

One of the layers 567 b and 567 d in the photoelectric conversion portion can be a hole-transport layer and the other can be an electron-transport layer. The layer 567 c can be a photoelectric conversion layer.

For the hole-transport layer, molybdenum oxide can be used, for example. For the electron-transport layer, fullerene such as C₆₀ or C₇₀, or a derivative thereof can be used, for example.

As the photoelectric conversion layer, a mixed layer of an n-type organic semiconductor and a p-type organic semiconductor (bulk heterojunction structure) can be used. There are various organic semiconductors, and a material having sensitivity to light with an intended wavelength is selected as a photoelectric conversion layer.

For the layer 563 illustrated in FIG. 17A, a silicon substrate can be used, for example. The silicon substrate includes a Si transistor or the like. With the use of the Si transistor, as well as a pixel circuit, a circuit for driving the pixel circuit, a circuit for reading out an image signal, an image processing circuit, a neural network, a communication circuit, or the like can be formed. Furthermore, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), a memory circuit such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), or the like may be formed. Note that the above-described circuits except the pixel circuit are each referred to as a functional circuit in this embodiment.

For example, some or all of the transistors included in the functional circuits (the rithmetic unit 21, the row driver 31, the column driver 32, the row driver 33, the column driver 34, the circuit 35, the circuit 36, and the like) provided in the layer 20 described in Embodiment 1 can be provided in the layer 563.

The layer 563 may be a stack of a plurality of layers as illustrated in FIG. 17B. Although FIG. 17B illustrates an example in which the layer 563 is composed of three layers 563 a, 563 b, and 563 c, a two-layer structure may be employed as well. Alternatively, the layer 563 may be a stack of four or more layers. These layers can be stacked by a bonding process, for example. With this structure, the pixel circuits and the functional circuits can be dispersed in a plurality of layers; thus, the pixel circuits and the functional circuits can be provided to overlap with each other, which enables a small imaging device with a high function to be manufactured.

Furthermore, the pixel may have a stacked-layer structure of the layer 561, a layer 562, and the layer 563 as illustrated in FIG. 17C.

The layer 562 corresponds to the layer 10 described in Embodiment 1, and can include OS transistors. One or more of the functional circuits described above may be formed using OS transistors. Alternatively, one or more of the functional circuits may be formed using Si transistors included in the layer 563 and the OS transistors included in the layer 562. Alternatively, the layer 563 may be a support substrate such as a glass substrate, and the pixel circuits and the functional circuits may be formed using the OS transistors included in the layer 562.

A normally-off CPU (also referred to as “NoffCPU (registered trademark)”) can be formed using an OS transistor and a Si transistor, for example. Note that the NoffCPU is an integrated circuit including a normally-off transistor, which is in a non-conduction state (also referred to as an off state) even when a gate voltage is 0 V.

In the NoffCPU, power supply to a circuit that does not need to operate can be stopped so that the circuit can be brought into a standby state. The circuit brought into the standby state because of the stop of power supply does not consume power. Thus, the power usage of the NoffCPU can be minimized. Moreover, the NoffCPU can retain data necessary for operation, such as setting conditions, for a long time even when power supply is stopped. The return from the standby state requires only restart of power supply to the circuit and does not require rewriting of setting conditions or the like. In other words, a high-speed return from the standby state is possible. As described here, the NoffCPU can have a reduced power consumption without a significant decrease in operation speed.

The layer 562 may be a stack of a plurality of layers as illustrated in FIG. 17D. Although FIG. 17D illustrates an example in which the layer 562 is composed of two layers 562 a and 562 b, a stack of three or more layers may be employed as well. These layers can be formed to be stacked over the layer 563, for example. Alternatively, the layers formed over the layer 563 and the layers formed over the layer 561 may be bonded to each other.

As a semiconductor material used for an OS transistor, a metal oxide whose energy gap is greater than or equal to 2 eV, preferably greater than or equal to 2.5 eV, further preferably greater than or equal to 3 eV can be used. A typical example thereof is an oxide semiconductor containing indium; and a CAAC-OS, a CAC-OS, each of which will be described later, or the like can be used, for example. A CAAC-OS has a crystal structure including stable atoms and is suitable for a transistor that is required to have high reliability, and the like. A CAC-OS has high mobility and is suitable for a transistor that operates at a high speed, and the like.

In an OS transistor, a semiconductor layer has a large energy gap, and thus the OS transistor has an extremely low off-state current of several yoctoamperes per micrometer (current per micrometer of a channel width). An OS transistor has features such that impact ionization, an avalanche breakdown, a short-channel effect, or the like does not occur, which are different from those of a Si transistor. Thus, the use of an OS transistor enables formation of a circuit having high withstand voltage and high reliability. Moreover, variations in electrical characteristics due to crystallinity unevenness, which are caused in the Si transistor, are less likely to occur in OS transistors.

A semiconductor layer in an OS transistor can be, for example, a film represented by an In-M-Zn-based oxide that contains indium, zinc, and M (one or more selected from metals such as aluminum, titanium, gallium, germanium, yttrium, zirconium, lanthanum, cerium, tin, neodymium, and hafnium). The In-M-Zn-based oxide can be typically formed by a sputtering method. Alternatively, the In-M-Zn-based oxide may be formed by an ALD (Atomic layer deposition) method.

It is preferable that the atomic ratio of metal elements of a sputtering target used for forming the In-M-Zn-based oxide by a sputtering method satisfy In≥M and Zn≥M. The atomic ratio of metal elements in such a sputtering target is preferably, for example, In:M:Zn=1:1:1, In:M:Zn=1:1:1.2, In:M:Zn=3:1:2, In:M:Zn=4:2:3, In:M:Zn=4:2:4.1, In:M:Zn=5:1:6, In:M:Zn=5:1:7, or In:M:Zn=5:1:8. Note that the atomic ratio in the formed semiconductor layer may vary from the above atomic ratio of metal elements in the sputtering target in a range of ±40%.

An oxide semiconductor with a low carrier density is used for the semiconductor layer. For example, for the semiconductor layer, an oxide semiconductor whose carrier density is lower than or equal to 1×10¹⁷/cm³, preferably lower than or equal to 1×10¹⁵/cm³, further preferably lower than or equal to 1×10¹³/cm³, still further preferably lower than or equal to 1×10¹¹/cm³, even further preferably lower than 1×10¹⁰/cm³, and higher than or equal to 1×10⁻⁹/cm³ can be used. Such an oxide semiconductor is referred to as a highly purified intrinsic or substantially highly purified intrinsic oxide semiconductor. The oxide semiconductor has a low density of defect states and can thus be referred to as an oxide semiconductor having stable characteristics.

Note that the composition is not limited to those described above, and a material having the appropriate composition may be used depending on required semiconductor characteristics and electrical characteristics of the transistor (e.g., field-effect mobility and threshold voltage). To obtain the required semiconductor characteristics of the transistor, it is preferable that the carrier density, the impurity concentration, the defect density, the atomic ratio between a metal element and oxygen, the interatomic distance, the density, and the like of the semiconductor layer be set to appropriate values.

When silicon or carbon, which is one of elements belonging to Group 14, is contained in the oxide semiconductor contained in the semiconductor layer, oxygen vacancies are increased, and the semiconductor layer becomes n-type. Thus, the concentration of silicon or carbon (the concentration obtained by secondary ion mass spectrometry) in the semiconductor layer is set to lower than or equal to 2×10¹⁸ atoms/cm³, preferably lower than or equal to 2×10¹⁷ atoms/cm³.

Alkali metal and alkaline earth metal might generate carriers when bonded to an oxide semiconductor, in which case the off-state current of the transistor might be increased. Therefore, the concentration of alkali metal or alkaline earth metal in the semiconductor layer (the concentration obtained by secondary ion mass spectrometry) is set to lower than or equal to 1×10¹⁸ atoms/cm³, preferably lower than or equal to 2×10¹⁶ atoms/cm³.

When nitrogen is contained in the oxide semiconductor contained in the semiconductor layer, electrons serving as carriers are generated and the carrier density increases, so that the semiconductor layer easily becomes n-type. As a result, a transistor using an oxide semiconductor that contains nitrogen is likely to have normally-on characteristics. Hence, the nitrogen concentration (the concentration obtained by secondary ion mass spectrometry) in the semiconductor layer is preferably set to lower than or equal to 5×10¹⁸ atoms/cm³.

When hydrogen is contained in the oxide semiconductor contained in the semiconductor layer, hydrogen reacts with oxygen bonded to a metal atom to be water, and thus sometimes forms oxygen vacancies in the oxide semiconductor. When the channel formation region in the oxide semiconductor includes oxygen vacancies, the transistor sometimes has normally-on characteristics. In some cases, a defect in which hydrogen enters oxygen vacancies functions as a donor and generates electrons serving as carriers. In other cases, bonding of part of hydrogen to oxygen bonded to a metal atom generates electrons serving as carriers. Thus, a transistor using an oxide semiconductor that contains a large amount of hydrogen is likely to have normally-on characteristics.

A defect in which hydrogen enters oxygen vacancies can function as a donor of the oxide semiconductor. However, it is difficult to evaluate the defects quantitatively. Thus, the oxide semiconductor is sometimes evaluated by not its donor concentration but its carrier concentration. Therefore, in this specification and the like, the carrier concentration assuming the state where an electric field is not applied is sometimes used, instead of the donor concentration, as the parameter of the oxide semiconductor. That is, “carrier concentration” in this specification and the like can be replaced with “donor concentration” in some cases.

Therefore, hydrogen in the oxide semiconductor is preferably reduced as much as possible. Specifically, the hydrogen concentration of the oxide semiconductor, which is obtained by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), is lower than 1×10²⁰ atoms/cm³, preferably lower than 1×10¹⁹ atoms/cm³, further preferably lower than 5×10¹⁸ atoms/cm³, still further preferably lower than 1×10¹⁸ atoms/cm³. When an oxide semiconductor with sufficiently reduced impurities such as hydrogen is used for a channel formation region of a transistor, stable electrical characteristics can be given.

The semiconductor layer may have a non-single-crystal structure, for example. Examples of the non-single-crystal structure include CAAC-OS (C-Axis Aligned Crystalline Oxide Semiconductor) including a c-axis aligned crystal, a polycrystalline structure, a microcrystalline structure, and an amorphous structure. Among the non-single-crystal structures, the amorphous structure has the highest density of defect states, whereas the CAAC-OS has the lowest density of defect states.

An oxide semiconductor film having an amorphous structure has disordered atomic arrangement and no crystalline component, for example. Alternatively, an oxide film having an amorphous structure has, for example, a completely amorphous structure and no crystal part.

Note that the semiconductor layer may be a mixed film including two or more of a region having an amorphous structure, a region having a microcrystalline structure, a region having a polycrystalline structure, a CAAC-OS region, and a region having a single crystal structure. The mixed film has, for example, a single-layer structure or a stacked-layer structure including two or more of the above regions in some cases.

The composition of a CAC (Cloud-Aligned Composite)-OS, which is one embodiment of a non-single-crystal semiconductor layer, will be described below.

A CAC-OS refers to one composition of a material in which elements constituting an oxide semiconductor are unevenly distributed with a size greater than or equal to 0.5 nm and less than or equal to 10 nm, preferably greater than or equal to 1 nm and less than or equal to 2 nm, or a similar size, for example. Note that a state in which one or more metal elements are unevenly distributed and regions including the metal element(s) are mixed with a size greater than or equal to 0.5 nm and less than or equal to 10 nm, preferably greater than or equal to 1 nm and less than or equal to 2 nm, or a similar size in an oxide semiconductor is hereinafter referred to as a mosaic pattern or a patch-like pattern.

Note that an oxide semiconductor preferably contains at least indium. It is particularly preferable that indium and zinc be contained. Moreover, in addition to these, one kind or a plurality of kinds selected from aluminum, gallium, yttrium, copper, vanadium, beryllium, boron, silicon, titanium, iron, nickel, germanium, zirconium, molybdenum, lanthanum, cerium, neodymium, hafnium, tantalum, tungsten, magnesium, and the like may be contained.

For example, of the CAC-OS, an In—Ga—Zn oxide with the CAC composition (such an In—Ga—Zn oxide may be particularly referred to as CAC-IGZO) has a composition in which materials are separated into indium oxide (hereinafter, InO_(X1) (X1 is a real number greater than 0)) or indium zinc oxide (hereinafter, In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) (X2, Y2, and Z2 are real numbers greater than 0)), and gallium oxide (hereinafter, GaO_(X3) (X3 is a real number greater than 0)) or gallium zinc oxide (hereinafter, Ga_(X4)Zn_(Y4)O_(Z4) (X4, Y4, and Z4 are real numbers greater than 0)), and a mosaic pattern is formed. Then, InO_(X1) or In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) forming the mosaic pattern is evenly distributed in the film (this composition is hereinafter also referred to as a cloud-like composition)

That is, the CAC-OS is a composite oxide semiconductor having a composition in which a region including GaO_(X3) as a main component and a region including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component are mixed. Note that in this specification, for example, when the atomic ratio of In to an element M in a first region is larger than the atomic ratio of In to the element M in a second region, the first region is regarded as having a higher In concentration than the second region.

Note that IGZO is a commonly known name and sometimes refers to one compound formed of In, Ga, Zn, and O. A typical example is a crystalline compound represented by InGaO₃(ZnO)_(m1) (m1 is a natural number) or In_((1+x0))Ga_((1-x0))O₃(ZnO)_(m0) (−1≤x0≤1; m0 is a given number).

The above crystalline compound has a single crystal structure, a polycrystalline structure, or a CAAC structure. Note that the CAAC structure is a crystal structure in which a plurality of IGZO nanocrystals have c-axis alignment and are connected in the a-b plane without alignment.

On the other hand, the CAC-OS relates to the material composition of an oxide semiconductor. The CAC-OS refers to a composition in which, in the material composition containing In, Ga, Zn, and O, some regions that include Ga as a main component and are observed as nanoparticles and some regions that include In as a main component and are observed as nanoparticles are randomly dispersed in a mosaic pattern. Therefore, the crystal structure is a secondary element for the CAC-OS.

Note that the CAC-OS is regarded as not including a stacked-layer structure of two or more kinds of films with different compositions. For example, a two-layer structure of a film including In as a main component and a film including Ga as a main component is not included.

Note that a clear boundary cannot sometimes be observed between the region including GaO_(X3) as a main component and the region including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component.

Note that in the case where one kind or a plurality of kinds selected from aluminum, yttrium, copper, vanadium, beryllium, boron, silicon, titanium, iron, nickel, germanium, zirconium, molybdenum, lanthanum, cerium, neodymium, hafnium, tantalum, tungsten, magnesium, and the like are contained instead of gallium, the CAC-OS refers to a composition in which some regions that include the metal element(s) as a main component and are observed as nanoparticles and some regions that include In as a main component and are observed as nanoparticles are randomly dispersed in a mosaic pattern.

The CAC-OS can be formed by a sputtering method under a condition where a substrate is not heated intentionally, for example. Moreover, in the case of forming the CAC-OS by a sputtering method, any one or more selected from an inert gas (typically, argon), an oxygen gas, and a nitrogen gas are used as a deposition gas. Furthermore, the ratio of the flow rate of an oxygen gas to the total flow rate of the deposition gas at the time of deposition is preferably as low as possible, and for example, the ratio of the flow rate of the oxygen gas is preferably higher than or equal to 0% and lower than 30%, further preferably higher than or equal to 0% and lower than or equal to 10%.

The CAC-OS is characterized in that no clear peak is observed in measurement using θ/2θ scan by an Out-of-plane method, which is one of X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurement methods. That is, it is found from the X-ray diffraction measurement that no alignment in the a-b plane direction and the c-axis direction is observed in a measured region.

In addition, in an electron diffraction pattern of the CAC-OS which is obtained by irradiation with an electron beam with a probe diameter of 1 nm (also referred to as a nanobeam electron beam), a ring-like high-luminance region (ring region) and a plurality of bright spots in the ring region are observed. It is therefore found from the electron diffraction pattern that the crystal structure of the CAC-OS includes an nc (nano-crystal) structure with no alignment in the plan-view direction and the cross-sectional direction.

Moreover, for example, it can be confirmed by EDX mapping obtained using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) that the CAC-OS in the In—Ga—Zn oxide has a composition in which regions including GaO_(X3) as a main component and regions including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component are unevenly distributed and mixed.

The CAC-OS has a composition different from that of an IGZO compound in which the metal elements are evenly distributed, and has characteristics different from those of the IGZO compound. That is, in the CAC-OS, the region including GaO_(X3) or the like as a main component and the region including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component are separated to form a mosaic pattern.

Here, a region including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component is a region whose conductivity is higher than that of a region including GaO_(X3) or the like as a main component. In other words, when carriers flow through the regions including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component, the conductivity of an oxide semiconductor is exhibited. Accordingly, when the regions including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component are distributed in an oxide semiconductor like a cloud, high field-effect mobility (μ) can be achieved.

By contrast, a region including GaO_(X3) or the like as a main component is a region whose insulating property is higher than that of a region including In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) as a main component. In other words, when the regions including GaO_(X3) or the like as a main component are distributed in an oxide semiconductor, a leakage current can be suppressed and favorable switching operation can be achieved.

Accordingly, when the CAC-OS is used for a semiconductor element, the insulating property derived from GaO_(X3) or the like and the conductivity derived from In_(X2)Zn_(Y2)O_(Z2) or InO_(X1) complement each other, whereby a high on-state current (Ion) and high field-effect mobility (μ) can be achieved.

A semiconductor element using the CAC-OS has high reliability. Thus, the CAC-OS is suitably used as a constituent material of a variety of semiconductor devices.

<Stacked-Layer Structure 1>

Next, a stacked-layer structure of the imaging device will be described with reference to a cross-sectional view. Note that components such as insulating layers and conductive layers are described below as examples, and other components may be further included. Alternatively, some components described below may be omitted. A stacked-layer structure described below can be formed by a bonding process, a polishing process, or the like as needed.

FIG. 19 is an example of a cross-sectional view of a stack including a layer 560, the layer 561, and the layer 563 and including a bonding surface between the layer 563 a and the layer 563 b of the layer 563.

<Layer 563 b>

The layer 563 b can include a functional circuit provided on a silicon substrate 611. Here, a transistor 223, a transistor 224, and a transistor 225 are illustrated as some of the transistors included in the functional circuit. Note that the transistor 225 is an example of a transistor included in the binarization circuit 22.

The silicon substrate 611 and insulating layers 612, 613, 614, 616, 617, and 618 are provided in the layer 563 b. The insulating layer 612 functions as a protective film. The insulating layers 613, 614, 616, and 617 each have functions of an interlayer insulating film and a planarization film. The insulating layer 618 and the conductive layer 619 function as bonding layers. The conductive layer 619 is electrically connected to a gate of the transistor 225.

As the protective film, for example, a silicon nitride film, a silicon oxide film, an aluminum oxide film, or the like can be used. As the interlayer insulating film and the planarization film, for example, an inorganic insulating film such as a silicon oxide film or an organic insulating film of an acrylic resin, a polyimide resin, or the like can be used. As the dielectric layer of the capacitor, a silicon nitride film, a silicon oxide film, an aluminum oxide film, or the like can be used. The bonding layers will be described later.

As a conductor that can be used for a wiring, an electrode, and a plug used for electrical connection between devices, a metal element selected from aluminum, chromium, copper, silver, gold, platinum, tantalum, nickel, titanium, molybdenum, tungsten, hafnium, vanadium, niobium, manganese, magnesium, zirconium, beryllium, indium, ruthenium, iridium, strontium, and lanthanum; an alloy containing any of the above metal elements as its component; an alloy containing a combination of the above metal elements; or the like is selected and used as appropriate. The conductor is not limited to a single layer, and may be a plurality of layers including different materials.

<Layer 563 a>

The layer 563 a includes the components of the pixel 14. The layer 563 a may further include the components of the functional circuit. Here, the transistor 102 and the transistor 105 included in the pixel circuit 15 are illustrated as some of the components of the pixel 14. In the cross-sectional view illustrated in FIG. 19 , electrical connection between the transistors is not illustrated.

A silicon substrate 632 and insulating layers 631, 633, 634, 635, 637, and 638 are provided in the layer 563 a. In addition, conductive layers 636 and 639 are provided.

The insulating layer 631 and the conductive layer 639 function as bonding layers. The insulating layers 634, 635, and 637 function as interlayer insulating films and planarization films. The insulating layer 633 functions as a protective film. The insulating layer 638 has a function of insulating the silicon substrate 632 from the conductive layer 639. The insulating layer 638 can be formed using a material similar to that for another insulating layer. The insulating layer 638 may be formed using the same material as that for the insulating layer 631.

The conductive layer 639 is electrically connected to the other of the source and the drain of the transistor 105 and the conductive layer 619. The conductive layer 636 is electrically connected to the wiring 111 (see FIG. 10A).

Si transistors illustrated in FIG. 19 are fin-type transistors including channel formation regions in the silicon substrates (the silicon substrates 611 and 632). FIG. 20A illustrates a cross section (a cross section along A1-A2 in the layer 563 a in FIG. 19 ) in the channel width direction. Note that the Si transistors may each be a planar-type transistor as illustrated in FIG. 20B.

Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 20C, a transistor including a semiconductor layer 545 of a silicon thin film may be used. The semiconductor layer 545 can be single crystal silicon (SOI (Silicon on Insulator)) formed on an insulating layer 546 on the silicon substrate 632, for example.

<Layer 561>

The layer 561 includes the photoelectric conversion device 101. The photoelectric conversion device 101 can be formed over the layer 563 a. FIG. 19 illustrates the photoelectric conversion device 101 having a structure in which the organic photoconductive film illustrated in FIG. 18C is used as the photoelectric conversion layer. Here, the layer 567 a is a cathode, and the layer 567 e is an anode.

Insulating layers 651, 652, 653, and 654 and a conductive layer 655 are provided in the layer 561.

The insulating layers 651, 653, and 654 function as interlayer insulating films and planarization films. The insulating layer 654 is provided to cover an end portion of the photoelectric conversion device 101, and has a function of preventing a short circuit between the layer 567 e and the layer 567 a. The insulating layer 652 functions as an element isolation layer. An organic insulating film or the like is preferably used as the element isolation layer.

The layer 567 a corresponding to the cathode of the photoelectric conversion device 101 is electrically connected to one of the source and the drain of the transistor 102 included in the layer 563 a. The layer 567 e corresponding to the anode of the photoelectric conversion device 101 is electrically connected to the conductive layer 636 included in the layer 563 a through the conductive layer 655.

<Layer 560>

The layer 560 is formed over the layer 561. The layer 560 includes a light-blocking layer 671, an optical conversion layer 672, and a microlens array 673.

The light-blocking layer 671 can suppress entry of light into an adjacent pixel. As the light-blocking layer 671, a metal layer of aluminum, tungsten, or the like can be used. The metal layer and a dielectric film functioning as an anti-reflection film may be stacked.

When the photoelectric conversion device 101 has sensitivity to visible light, a color filter can be used as the optical conversion layer 672. When colors of R (red), G (green), B (blue), Y (yellow), C (cyan), M (magenta), and the like are assigned to the color filters of different pixels, a color image can be obtained. For example, as illustrated in a perspective view (including a cross section) of FIG. 28A, a color filter 672R (red), a color filter 672G (green), and a color filter 672B (blue) can be assigned to different pixels.

When a wavelength cut filter is used as the optical conversion layer 672 in the appropriate combination of the photoelectric conversion device 101 and the optical conversion layer 672, the imaging device can capture images in various wavelength regions.

For example, when an infrared filter that blocks light having a wavelength shorter than or equal to that of visible light is used as the optical conversion layer 672, an infrared imaging device can be obtained. When a filter that blocks light having a wavelength shorter than or equal to that of near infrared light is used as the optical conversion layer 672, a far-infrared imaging device can be obtained. When an ultraviolet filter that blocks light having a wavelength longer than or equal to that of visible light is used as the optical conversion layer 672, an ultraviolet imaging device can be obtained.

Note that different optical conversion layers may be provided in one imaging device. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 28B, the color filter 672R (red), the color filter 672G (green), the color filter 672B (blue), and an infrared filter 67218 can be assigned to different pixels. With this structure, a visible light image and an infrared light image can be obtained simultaneously.

Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 28C, the color filter 672R (red), the color filter 672G (green), the color filter 672B (blue), and an ultraviolet filter 672UV can be assigned to different pixels. With this structure, a visible light image and an ultraviolet light image can be obtained simultaneously.

Furthermore, when a scintillator is used as the optical conversion layer 672, an imaging device that obtains an image visualizing the intensity of radiation, which is used for an X-ray imaging device or the like, can be obtained. Radiation such as X-rays passes through an object and enters the scintillator, and then is converted into light (fluorescence) such as visible light or ultraviolet light owing to a photoluminescence phenomenon. Then, the photoelectric conversion device 101 detects the light to obtain image data. Furthermore, the imaging device having this structure may be used in a radiation detector or the like.

A scintillator contains a substance that, when irradiated with radiation such as X-rays or gamma-rays, absorbs energy of the radiation to emit visible light or ultraviolet light. For example, a resin or ceramics in which Gd₂O₂S:Tb, Gd₂O₂S:Pr, Gd₂O₂S:Eu, BaFCl:Eu, NaI, CsI, CaF₂, BaF₂, CeF₃, LiF, LiI, ZnO, or the like is dispersed can be used.

Image capturing with the use of infrared light or ultraviolet light can provide the imaging device with an inspection function, a security function, a sensor function, or the like. For example, by image capturing with the use of infrared light, non-destructive inspection of products, sorting of agricultural products (e.g., sugar content meter function), vein authentication, medical inspection, or the like can be performed. Furthermore, by image capturing with the use of ultraviolet light, detection of ultraviolet light released from a light source or a frame can be performed, whereby a light source, a heat source, a production device, or the like can be controlled, for example.

The microlens array 673 is provided over the optical conversion layer 672. Light passing through an individual lens of the microlens array 673 goes through the optical conversion layer 672 directly under the lens, and the photoelectric conversion device 101 is irradiated with the light. With the microlens array 673, collected light can be incident on the photoelectric conversion device 101; thus, photoelectric conversion can be efficiently performed. The microlens array 673 is preferably formed using a resin, glass, or the like having a high light transmitting property with respect to light with an intended wavelength.

<Bonding>

Next, bonding of the layer 563 b and the layer 563 a will be described.

The insulating layer 618 and the conductive layer 619 are provided in the layer 563 b. The conductive layer 619 includes a region embedded in the insulating layer 618. Furthermore, the surfaces of the insulating layer 618 and the conductive layer 619 are planarized to be level with each other.

The insulating layer 631 and the conductive layer 639 are provided in the layer 563 a. The conductive layer 639 includes a region embedded in the insulating layer 631. Furthermore, the surfaces of the insulating layer 631 and the conductive layer 639 are planarized to be level with each other.

Here, a main component of the conductive layer 619 and a main component of the conductive layer 639 are preferably the same metal element. Furthermore, the insulating layer 618 and the insulating layer 631 are preferably formed of the same component.

For the conductive layers 619 and 639, Cu, Al, Sn, Zn, W, Ag, Pt, or Au can be used, for example. Preferably, Cu, Al, W, or Au is used for easy bonding. In addition, for the insulating layers 618 and 631, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, silicon nitride oxide, silicon nitride, titanium nitride, or the like can be used.

That is, the same metal material described above is preferably used for the conductive layer 619 and the conductive layer 639. Furthermore, the same insulating material described above is preferably used for the insulating layer 618 and the insulating layer 631. With this structure, bonding can be performed at the boundary between the layer 563 b and the layer 563 a.

Note that the conductive layer 619 and the conductive layer 639 may each have a multilayer structure of a plurality of layers; in that case, the outer layers (bonding surfaces) are formed of the same metal material. The insulating layer 618 and the insulating layer 631 may each have a multilayer structure of a plurality of layers; in that case, the outer layers (bonding surfaces) are formed of the same insulating material.

Through the above bonding, the electrical connection between the conductive layer 619 and the conductive layer 639 can be obtained. Moreover, the connection between the insulating layer 618 and the insulating layer 631 with mechanical strength can be obtained.

For bonding metal layers to each other, a surface activated bonding method in which an oxide film, a layer adsorbing impurities, and the like on the surface are removed by sputtering treatment or the like and the cleaned and activated surfaces are brought into contact to be bonded to each other can be used. Alternatively, a diffusion bonding method in which the surfaces are bonded to each other by using temperature and pressure together can be used, for example. Both methods cause bonding at an atomic level, and therefore not only electrically but also mechanically excellent bonding can be obtained.

Furthermore, for bonding insulating layers to each other, a hydrophilic bonding method or the like can be used; in the method, after high planarity is obtained by polishing or the like, the surfaces of the insulating layers subjected to hydrophilicity treatment with oxygen plasma or the like are arranged in contact with and bonded to each other temporarily, and then dehydrated by heat treatment to perform final bonding. The hydrophilic bonding method can also cause bonding at an atomic level; thus, mechanically excellent bonding can be obtained.

When the layer 563 b and the layer 563 a are bonded to each other, the insulating layers and the metal layers coexist on their bonding surfaces; therefore, the surface activated bonding method and the hydrophilic bonding method are performed in combination, for example.

For example, it is possible to use a method in which the surfaces are made clean after polishing, the surfaces of the metal layers are subjected to antioxidant treatment and hydrophilicity treatment, and then bonding is performed. Furthermore, hydrophilicity treatment may be performed on the surfaces of the metal layers being hardly oxidizable metal such as Au. Note that a bonding method other than the above-mentioned methods may be used.

The above bonding allows the circuit included in the layer 563 b to be electrically connected to the components of the pixel 14 included in the layer 563 a.

<Modification Example of Stacked-Layer Structure 1>

FIG. 21 is a modification example of the stacked-layer structure illustrated in FIG. 19 and differs from FIG. 19 in the structure of the photoelectric conversion device 101 included in the layer 561 and part of the structure of the layer 563 a; a bonding surface is also included between the layer 561 and the layer 563 a.

The layer 561 includes the photoelectric conversion device 101, insulating layers 661, 662, 664, and 665, and conductive layers 685 and 686.

The photoelectric conversion device 101 is a pn junction photodiode and includes the layer 565 b corresponding to a p-type region and the layer 565 a corresponding to an n-type region. Note that an example where a pn junction photodiode is formed over a silicon substrate is described here. The photoelectric conversion device 101 is a pinned photodiode, which can suppress a dark current and reduce noise with the thin p-type region (part of the layer 565 b) provided on the surface side (current extraction side) of the layer 565 a.

The insulating layer 661 and the conductive layers 685 and 686 function as bonding layers. The insulating layer 662 functions as an interlayer insulating film and a planarization film. The insulating layer 664 functions as an element isolation layer.

The silicon substrate is provided with a groove that separates pixels, and the insulating layer 665 is provided on the top surface of the silicon substrate and in the groove. The insulating layer 665 can suppress leakage of carriers generated in the photoelectric conversion device 101 to an adjacent pixel. The insulating layer 665 also has a function of suppressing entry of stray light. Therefore, color mixture can be suppressed with the insulating layer 665. Note that an anti-reflection film may be provided between the top surface of the silicon substrate and the insulating layer 665.

The insulating layer 664 can be formed by a LOCOS (LOCal Oxidation of Silicon) method. Alternatively, an STI (Shallow Trench Isolation) method or the like may be used to form the insulating layer 664. As the insulating layer 665, for example, an inorganic insulating film of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or the like or an organic insulating film of polyimide, acrylic, or the like can be used. The insulating layer 665 may have a multilayer structure. A space may be provided in part of the insulating layer 665. The space may contain a gas such as the air or an inert gas. Moreover, the space may be in a reduced pressure state.

The layer 565 a (corresponding to the n-type region and the cathode) of the photoelectric conversion device 101 is electrically connected to the conductive layer 685. The layer 565 b (corresponding to the p-type region and the anode) is electrically connected to the conductive layer 686. The conductive layers 685 and 686 each include a region embedded in the insulating layer 661. Furthermore, the surfaces of the insulating layer 661 and the conductive layers 685 and 686 are planarized to be level with each other.

In the layer 563 a, the insulating layer 638 is formed over the insulating layer 637. In addition, a conductive layer 683 electrically connected to one of the source and the drain of the transistor 102 and a conductive layer 684 electrically connected to the conductive layer 636 are formed.

The insulating layer 638 and the conductive layers 683 and 684 function as bonding layers. The conductive layers 683 and 684 each include a region embedded in the insulating layer 638. Furthermore, the surfaces of the insulating layer 638 and the conductive layers 683 and 684 are planarized to be level with each other.

Here, the conductive layers 683, 684, 685, and 686 are the same bonding layers as the above-described conductive layers 619 and 639. The insulating layers 638 and 661 are the same bonding layers as the above-described insulating layers 618 and 631.

Thus, when the conductive layer 683 and the conductive layer 685 are bonded to each other, the layer 565 a (corresponding to the n-type region and the cathode) of the photoelectric conversion device 101 can be electrically connected to the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 102. In addition, when the conductive layer 684 and the conductive layer 686 are bonded to each other, the layer 565 b (corresponding to the p-type region and the anode) of the photoelectric conversion device 101 can be electrically connected to the wiring 111 (see FIG. 10A). When the insulating layer 638 and the insulating layer 661 are bonded to each other, electrical bonding and mechanical bonding of the layer 561 and the layer 563 a can be performed.

FIG. 22 illustrates a modification example different from the above, and is a structure in which the transistor 102 is provided in the layer 561. In this structure, the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 102 is directly connected to the photoelectric conversion device 101 and the other of the source and the drain functions as the node N. With this structure, electric charge accumulated in the photoelectric conversion device 101 can be completely transferred, so that an imaging device with little noise can be achieved.

Here, the other of the source and the drain of the transistor 102 included in the layer 561 is electrically connected to a conductive layer 692. The gate of the transistor 104 included in the layer 563 is electrically connected to a conductive layer 691. The conductive layers 691 and 692 are the same bonding layers as the above-described conductive layers 619 and 639.

<Stacked-Layer Structure 2>

FIG. 23 is an example of a cross-sectional view of a stack including the layers 560, 561, 562, and 563 and not including a bonding surface. Si transistors are provided in the layer 563. OS transistors are provided in the layer 562. Note that the structures of the layer 563, the layer 561, and the layer 560 are not described here because they are the same as the structures illustrated in FIG. 19 .

<Layer 562>

The layer 562 is formed over the layer 563. The layer 562 includes OS transistors. Here, the transistor 102 and the transistor 105 are illustrated. In the cross-sectional view illustrated in FIG. 23 , electrical connection between the transistors is not illustrated.

Insulating layers 621, 622, 623, 624, 625, 626, and 628 are provided in the layer 562. Moreover, a conductive layer 627 is provided. The conductive layer 627 can be electrically connected to the wiring 111 (see FIG. 10A).

The insulating layer 621 functions as a blocking layer. The insulating layers 622, 623, 625, 626, and 628 function as interlayer insulating films and planarization films. The insulating layer 624 has a function of a protective film.

As the blocking layer, a film that has a function of preventing hydrogen diffusion is preferably used. In a Si device, hydrogen is necessary to terminate dangling bonds; however, hydrogen in the vicinity of an OS transistor is one factor of generating carriers in an oxide semiconductor layer, which leads to a decrease in reliability. Therefore, a hydrogen blocking film is preferably provided between a layer in which the Si device is formed and a layer in which the OS transistor is formed.

For the blocking film, for example, aluminum oxide, aluminum oxynitride, gallium oxide, gallium oxynitride, yttrium oxide, yttrium oxynitride, hafnium oxide, hafnium oxynitride, or yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) can be used.

The other of the source and the drain of the transistor 105 is electrically connected to the gate of the transistor 225 through a plug. Furthermore, the conductive layer 627 is electrically connected to the wiring 111 (see FIG. 10A).

The one of the source and the drain of the transistor 102 is electrically connected to the cathode of the photoelectric conversion device 101 included in the layer 561. The conductive layer 627 is electrically connected to the anode of the photoelectric conversion device 101 included in the layer 561.

The details of an OS transistor are illustrated in FIG. 24A. The OS transistor illustrated in FIG. 24A has a self-aligned structure in which a source electrode 705 and a drain electrode 706 are formed through provision of an insulating layer over stacked layers of an oxide semiconductor layer and a conductive layer and provision of opening portions reaching the oxide semiconductor layer.

The OS transistor can include a gate electrode 701 and a gate insulating film 702 in addition to a channel formation region 708, a source region 703, and a drain region 704, which are formed in the oxide semiconductor layer. At least the gate insulating film 702 and the gate electrode 701 are provided in the opening portion. The opening portion may further be provided with an oxide semiconductor layer 707.

As illustrated in FIG. 24B, the OS transistor may have a self-aligned structure in which the source region 703 and the drain region 704 are formed in the semiconductor layer with the gate electrode 701 as a mask.

As illustrated in FIG. 24C, the OS transistor may be a non-self-aligned top-gate transistor including a region where the source electrode 705 or the drain electrode 706 overlaps with the gate electrode 701.

Although the OS transistor has a structure with a back gate 735, it may have a structure without a back gate. As illustrated in a cross-sectional view of the transistor in the channel width direction in FIG. 24D, the back gate 735 may be electrically connected to a front gate of the transistor, which is provided to face the back gate. Note that FIG. 24D illustrates an example of a B1-B2 cross section of the transistor in FIG. 24A, and the same applies to a transistor having any of the other structures. A structure where a fixed potential different from the potential supplied to the front gate is supplied to the back gate 735 may be employed.

<Modification Example of Stacked-Layer Structure 2>

FIG. 25 is a modification example of the stacked-layer structure illustrated in FIG. 25 and differs from FIG. 23 in the structure of the photoelectric conversion device 101 included in the layer 561 and part of the structure of the layer 562; a bonding surface is included between the layer 561 and the layer 562.

The photoelectric conversion device 101 included in the layer 561 is a pn junction photodiode and has a structure similar to that illustrated in FIG. 21 .

In the layer 562, an insulating layer 648 is formed over the insulating layer 628. In addition, a conductive layer 688 electrically connected to the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 102 and a conductive layer 689 electrically connected to the conductive layer 627 are formed.

The insulating layer 648 and the conductive layers 688 and 689 function as bonding layers. The conductive layers 688 and 689 each include a region embedded in the insulating layer 648. Furthermore, the surfaces of the insulating layer 648 and the conductive layers 688 and 689 are planarized to be level with each other.

Here, the conductive layers 688 and 689 are the same bonding layers as the above-described conductive layers 619 and 639. The insulating layer 648 is the same bonding layer as the above-described insulating layers 618 and 631.

Thus, when the conductive layer 688 and the conductive layer 685 are bonded to each other, the layer 565 a (corresponding to the n-type region and the cathode) of the photoelectric conversion device 101 can be electrically connected to the one of the source and the drain of the transistor 102. In addition, when the conductive layer 689 and the conductive layer 686 are bonded to each other, the layer 565 b (corresponding to the p-type region and the anode) of the photoelectric conversion device 101 can be electrically connected to the wiring 111 (see FIG. 10A). When the insulating layer 648 and the insulating layer 661 are bonded to each other, electrical bonding and mechanical bonding of the layer 561 and the layer 562 can be performed.

In the case where a plurality of Si devices are stacked, a polishing step and a bonding step are required to be performed a plurality of times. Consequently, there are issues such as a large number of manufacturing steps, the need for a dedicated apparatus, and a low yield, and the manufacturing cost is high. An OS transistor can be formed to be stacked over a semiconductor substrate on which a device is formed, and thus a bonding step can be skipped.

Note that the structure illustrated in FIG. 22 in which the transistor 102 is provided in the layer 561 may be applied to this structure.

The memory cell 150 can be provided in, for example, the layer 562. FIG. 26 illustrates the structure in which the transistors 102, 105, and the like, which are components of the pixel circuit, and the transistor 273 and the like, which are components of the memory cell 150, are provided over the same surface in the layer 562.

FIG. 27 illustrates the structure in which the transistors 102, 104, 105, and the like, which are components of the pixel circuit, and the transistors 272, 273, and the like, which are components of the memory cell 150, are stacked so as to have an overlapping region in the layer 562. This structure can reduce the circuit area, achieving a small imaging device with a high function. Furthermore, the structure can shorten the length of wirings electrically connecting the stacked components, enabling a high-speed operation with low power consumption.

Note that the structure illustrated in FIG. 22 in which the transistor 102 is provided in the layer 561 may be applied to the structures illustrated in FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 . The structure of the photoelectric conversion device 101 illustrated in FIG. 23 may also be applied.

<Package and Module>

FIG. 29A is an external perspective view of a package containing an image sensor chip. The package is a CSP (Chip Size Package), which includes a bare chip 450 of an image sensor, cover glass 440, an adhesive 430 that bonds them, and the like.

Electrode pads 425 provided on the outside of a pixel array 455 are electrically connected to back electrodes 415 via through electrodes 420. The electrode pads 425 are electrically connected to a circuit forming the image sensor, with wirings or wires. Note that the bare chip 450 may be a stacked chip in which a circuit having various functions is stacked.

The example in FIG. 29 illustrates a BGA (Ball Grid Array) with a structure in which bumps 410 are formed with solder balls on the back electrodes 415. Note that, without being limited to the BGA, an LGA (Land Grid Array), a PGA (Pin Grid Array), or the like may be employed. Alternatively, a package in which the bare chip 450 is mounted on a QFN (Quad Flat No-lead package) or a QFP (Quad Flat Package) may be used.

FIG. 29B is an external perspective view from the top surface side of a camera module with a combination of an image sensor chip and a lens. The camera module includes a lens cover 460, a plurality of lenses 470, and the like over the structure of FIG. 29A. In addition, an optical filter 480 that absorbs light with a certain wavelength is provided as needed between the lens 470 and the cover glass 440. For example, in the case where the image sensor mainly performs visible light imaging, an infrared cut filter or the like can be used as the optical filter 480.

The image sensor chip placed in a package having the above-described form can be easily mounted on a printed substrate or the like, and the image sensor chip can be incorporated in a variety of semiconductor devices and electronic devices.

This embodiment can be combined with the description of the other embodiments as appropriate.

Embodiment 4

As electronic devices that can use the imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention, display devices, personal computers, image memory devices or image reproducing devices provided with storage media, mobile phones, game machines including portable game machines, portable data terminals, e-book readers, cameras such as video cameras and digital still cameras, goggle-type displays (head mounted displays), navigation systems, audio reproducing devices (car audio players, digital audio players, and the like), copiers, facsimiles, printers, multifunction printers, automated teller machines (ATM), vending machines, and the like are given. FIG. 30A to FIG. 30F illustrate specific examples of these electronic devices.

FIG. 30A is an example of a mobile phone, which includes a housing 981, a display portion 982, an operation button 983, an external connection port 984, a speaker 985, a microphone 986, a camera 987, and the like. The display portion 982 of the mobile phone is provided with a touch sensor. A variety of operations such as making a call and inputting a character can be performed by touch on the display portion 982 with a finger, a stylus, or the like. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used in the mobile phone.

FIG. 30B is a portable data terminal, which includes a housing 911, a display portion 912, a speaker 913, a camera 919, and the like. A touch panel function of the display portion 912 enables input and output of information. Furthermore, a character or the like in an image that is captured by the camera 919 can be recognized and the character can be voice-output from the speaker 913. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used in the portable data terminal.

FIG. 30C is a surveillance camera, which includes a support base 951, a camera unit 952, a protection cover 953, and the like. By setting the camera unit 952 provided with a rotating mechanism and the like on a ceiling, an image of all of the surroundings can be taken. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used for obtaining an image in the camera unit. Note that a surveillance camera is a name in common use and does not limit the use thereof. A device that has a function of a surveillance camera can also be called a camera or a video camera, for example.

FIG. 30D is a drive recorder, which includes a frame 941, a camera 942, an operation button 943, an attaching part 944, and the like. When the attaching part 944 is set on a front window or the like of an automobile, the landscape ahead in driving can be recorded. Note that a display panel displaying the recorded image is provided on a rear surface, which is not illustrated. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used in the camera 942.

FIG. 30E is a digital camera, which includes a housing 961, a shutter button 962, a microphone 963, a light-emitting portion 967, a lens 965, and the like. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used in the digital camera.

FIG. 30F is a wrist-watch-type information terminal, which includes a display portion 932, a housing and wristband 933, a camera 939, and the like. The display portion 932 is provided with a touch panel for performing the operation of the information terminal. The display portion 932 and the housing and wristband 933 have flexibility and fit a body well. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used in the information terminal.

FIG. 31A is a drone as an example of a moving vehicle, which includes a frame 921, an arm 922, a rotor 923, a blade 924, a camera 925, a battery 926, and the like and has a function of flying autonomously, a function of staying still in midair, and the like. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used in the camera 925.

FIG. 31B illustrates an external view of an automobile as an example of a moving vehicle. An automobile 890 includes a plurality of cameras 891 and the like, and can obtain information on the front, rear, left, and right sides and the upper side of the automobile 890. The imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention and the operation method thereof can be used in the cameras 891. The automobile 890 is also provided with various sensors such as an infrared radar, a millimeter wave radar, and a laser radar (not illustrated) and the like. The automobile 890 judges traffic conditions therearound such as the presence of a guardrail or a pedestrian by analyzing images in a plurality of image capturing directions 892 taken by the cameras 891, and thus can perform autonomous driving. It can also be used for a system for navigation, risk prediction, or the like.

When arithmetic processing with a neural network or the like is performed on the obtained image data in the imaging device of one embodiment of the present invention, for example, processing such as an increase in image resolution, a reduction in image noise, face recognition (for security reasons or the like), object recognition (for autonomous driving or the like), image compression, image compensation (a wide dynamic range), restoration of an image of a lensless image sensor, positioning, character recognition, and reduction of glare and reflection can be performed.

Note that the automobile may be any of an automobile having an internal-combustion engine, an electric vehicle, a hydrogen vehicle, and the like. Furthermore, the moving vehicle is not limited to an automobile. Examples of the moving vehicle also include a train, a monorail train, a ship, and a flying vehicle (a helicopter, an unmanned aircraft, an airplane, and a rocket), and these moving vehicles can include a system utilizing artificial intelligence when equipped with a computer of one embodiment of the present invention.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

10: layer, 11: pixel unit, 12: pixel block, 13: pixel block, 14: pixel, 15: pixel circuit, 16: memory circuit, 20: layer, 21: arithmetic unit, 22: binarization circuit, 23: product-sum operation circuit, 23 a: multiplier, 23 b: adder, 24: binarization circuit, 24S: selection transistor, 25: circuit, 26 a: adder circuit, 26 b: binarization circuit, 31: row driver, 32: column driver, 33: row driver, 34: column driver, 35: circuit, 36: circuit, 40: circuit, 40S: switch, 41: circuit, 41S: switch, 42S: switch, 43S: switch, 44S: switch, 45S: switch, 51: register, 52: register, 60: circuit, 101: photoelectric conversion device, 102: transistor, 103: transistor, 104: transistor, 105: transistor, 106: capacitor, 107: transistor, 108: transistor, 109: transistor, 111: wiring, 112: wiring, 113: wiring, 114: wiring, 115: wiring, 116: wiring, 117: wiring, 118: wiring, 119: wiring, 150: memory cell, 150 a: memory cell, 150 b: memory cell, 170: back gate wiring, 175: metal oxide layer, 180: source-drain wiring, 185: gate wiring, 190: wiring, 223: transistor, 224: transistor, 225: transistor, 272: transistor, 273: transistor, 274: capacitor, 410: bump, 415: back electrode, 420: through electrode, 425: electrode pad, 430: adhesive, 440: cover glass, 450: bare chip, 455: pixel array, 460: lens cover, 470: lens, 480: optical filter, 545: semiconductor layer, 546: insulating layer, 560: layer, 561: layer, 562: layer, 562 a: layer, 562 b: layer, 563: layer, 563 a: layer, 563 b: layer, 563 c: layer, 565 a: layer, 565 b: layer, 566 a: layer, 566 b: layer, 566 c: layer, 566 d: layer, 567 a: layer, 567 b: layer, 567 c: layer, 567 d: layer, 567 e: layer, 611: silicon substrate, 612: insulating layer, 613: insulating layer, 614: insulating layer, 616: insulating layer, 617: insulating layer, 618: insulating layer, 619: conductive layer, 621: insulating layer, 622: insulating layer, 623: insulating layer, 624: insulating layer, 625: insulating layer, 626: insulating layer, 627: conductive layer, 628: insulating layer, 631: insulating layer, 632: silicon substrate, 633: insulating layer, 634: insulating layer, 635: insulating layer, 636: conductive layer, 637: insulating layer, 638: insulating layer, 639: conductive layer, 648: insulating layer, 651: insulating layer, 652: insulating layer, 653: insulating layer, 654: insulating layer, 655: conductive layer, 661: insulating layer, 662: insulating layer, 664: insulating layer, 665: insulating layer, 671: light-blocking layer, 672: optical conversion layer, 672B: color filter, 672G: color filter, 6721R: infrared filter, 672R: color filter, 672UV: ultraviolet filter, 673: microlens array, 683: conductive layer, 684: conductive layer, 685: conductive layer, 686: conductive layer, 688: conductive layer, 689: conductive layer, 691: conductive layer, 692: conductive layer, 701: gate electrode, 702: gate insulating film, 703: source region, 704: drain region, 705: source electrode, 706: drain electrode, 707: oxide semiconductor layer, 708: channel formation region, 735: back gate, 890: automobile, 891: camera, 892: image capturing direction, 911: housing, 912: display portion, 913: speaker, 919: camera, 921: frame, 922: arm, 923: rotor, 924: blade, 925: camera, 926: battery, 932: display portion, 933: housing and wristband, 939: camera, 941: frame, 942: camera, 943: operation button, 944: part, 951: support base, 952: camera unit, 953: protection cover, 961: housing, 962: shutter button, 963: microphone, 965: lens, 967: light-emitting portion, 981: housing, 982: display portion, 983: operation button, 984: external connection port, 985: speaker, 986: microphone, 987: camera 

1. An imaging device comprising: a plurality of pixel blocks, wherein each of the plurality of pixel blocks comprises: a first layer comprising a plurality of pixel circuits and a plurality of first memory circuits; and a second layer comprising a plurality of product-sum operation circuits, a plurality of first binarization circuits, and a plurality of second binarization circuits, wherein the first layer comprises a region overlapping with the second layer, and wherein each of the plurality of pixel circuits and each of the first memory circuits comprises a transistor including a metal oxide in a channel formation region.
 2. (canceled)
 3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of product-sum operation circuits, each of the plurality of first binarization circuits, and each of the plurality of second binarization circuits comprises a transistor including silicon in a channel formation region.
 4. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of pixel circuits is electrically connected to one of the plurality of first binarization circuits.
 5. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of first binarization circuits is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.
 6. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of the first memory circuits is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.
 7. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of product-sum operation circuits is electrically connected to one of the plurality of second binarization circuits.
 8. (canceled)
 9. The imaging device according to claim 1, further comprising a second memory circuit, wherein an input terminal of the second memory circuit is electrically connected to the plurality of second binarization circuits, and wherein an output terminal of the second memory circuit is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.
 10. The imaging device according to claim 9, further comprising a third memory circuit and a third binarization circuit, wherein the third memory circuit is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits through the third binarization circuit.
 11. (canceled)
 12. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the metal oxide comprises In.
 13. (canceled)
 14. An imaging device comprising: a plurality of pixel blocks, wherein each of the plurality of pixel blocks comprises: a first layer comprising a plurality of pixel circuits; a second layer comprising a plurality of product-sum operation circuits, a plurality of first binarization circuits, and a plurality of second binarization circuits; and a third layer comprising a plurality of first memory circuits, wherein the first layer comprises a region overlapping with the second layer and a region overlapping with the third layer, and wherein each of the plurality of pixel circuits and each of the first memory circuits comprises a transistor including a metal oxide in a channel formation region.
 15. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of product-sum operation circuits, each of the plurality of first binarization circuits, and each of the plurality of second binarization circuits comprises a transistor including silicon in a channel formation region.
 16. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein one of the plurality of pixel circuits is electrically connected to one of the plurality of first binarization circuits.
 17. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein one of the plurality of first binarization circuits is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.
 18. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein one of the plurality of the first memory circuits is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.
 19. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein one of the plurality of product-sum operation circuits is electrically connected to one of the plurality of second binarization circuits.
 20. The imaging device according to claim 14, further comprising a second memory circuit, wherein an input terminal of the second memory circuit is electrically connected to the plurality of second binarization circuits, and wherein an output terminal of the second memory circuit is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits.
 21. The imaging device according to claim 20, further comprising a third memory circuit and a third binarization circuit, wherein the third memory circuit is electrically connected to the plurality of product-sum operation circuits through the third binarization circuit.
 22. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein the metal oxide comprises In. 